5th Wheel Hitch

[BuckandTeresa]

Started off with a B&W manual slider, late one dark night while both of us were deathly ill, my turn was about an eighth of an inch too sharp and the front of my Montana exploded the rear window of my truck with no metal damage. Just slightly too much. I had used the manual slide option before but it took time and I was in a crowded gas station parking lot. An experienced trailer dealer recommended I buy the PullRite auto-slider. I checked it out and have used it two seasons now— fabulous. I sold my B&W Companion hitch for 3/4 price, so there is that.

My strong recommendation is the PullRite Auto-Slider.

[firestation12]

Originally Posted by GetGone

Again, thanks to everyone for the input. We've been doing the camper hauling thing for over 25 years. Everything from a bumper pull to a gooseneck to a 5th wheel. I know what I like but I never turn down the opportunity to here someone else's thoughts and opinions. Just might learn something new!!

Well, don’t keep everyone in suspense…….what are you going to do?

[mdpcjjjj]

I've considered going with a gooseneck type of hitch in future. Definitely very easy to install and remove the ball in the F350. How about experience with a short bed and the Reese Goosebox?

[Foldbak]

Originally Posted by BuckandTeresa

Started off with a B&W manual slider, late one dark night while both of us were deathly ill, my turn was about an eighth of an inch too sharp and the front of my Montana exploded the rear window of my truck with no metal damage. Just slightly too much. I had used the manual slide option before but it took time and I was in a crowded gas station parking lot. An experienced trailer dealer recommended I buy the PullRite auto-slider. I checked it out and have used it two seasons now— fabulous. I sold my B&W Companion hitch for 3/4 price, so there is that.

My strong recommendation is the PullRite Auto-Slider.

OUCH! That the reason I went with a slider. Max turn cap or not. Not taking any chances!

[ojo123]

Jeff:
I have the exact same set up as you and I am perfectly happy with the hitch. One note however..... Do NOT move the trailer, even a few feet without inserting the safety pin on the hitch! Don't even ask how I know.

[DutchmenSport]

If you don't need a slider, the Demco Recon (non slider) is a good option. It's adjustable in height, lightweight (less than 100 pounds combined), comes apart in 3 sections for even less weight to carry at one time. And.... doesn't break the bank to purchase.

It is a basic hitch. No air bags, no struts, no fancy anything. It's just easy to use and easy to remove, and easy to carry.

[catch up with the zzzz]

It's my belief to when possible have the factory installed hitch
The benefit of this is the warranty
If you encounter any problems with the hitch any dealer will simply switch it put for a new one no charge.

[DutchmenSport]

Originally Posted by catch up with the zzzz

It's my belief to when possible have the factory installed hitch
The benefit of this is the warranty
If you encounter any problems with the hitch any dealer will simply switch it put for a new one no charge.

I have never heard of an auto manufacture installing a fifth wheel hitch as "factory." Now, the selling dealership will install them. In fact, in order to make the sale, they'll do just about anything to make the consumer happy.

My Chevy 3500 dually did not come with running boards. As part of the price negotiation, I told them if they'd throw in running boards we had a deal. They did, no extra charge. They actually installed some pretty nice ones.

When I asked why the factory did not install running boards, they said it's because that is a customized item. Too many people want something different, so they leave them off at the factory so the buyer can select his own "customization".

I would think the same is true for fifth wheel hitches. It would be like having them install a bumper pull hitch too. Too many variables by the potential new owner to make a good call at the factory. Those things are done by the dealerships, but will do pretty much anything or install any product you want, if it makes the sale.

[catch up with the zzzz]

Yes I ordered my truck from the dealer and ordered the truck with the hitch. Sorry if the truck is already purchased.

[ToolMan]

Can't say for sure but the B&W may be the only one that is American made. I love my Companion slider. Always easy to hook up and release.

[Rotnjonny]

Originally Posted by DutchmenSport

I have never heard of an auto manufacture installing a fifth wheel hitch as "factory." Now, the selling dealership will install them. In fact, in order to make the sale, they'll do just about anything to make the consumer happy.

My Chevy 3500 dually did not come with running boards. As part of the price negotiation, I told them if they'd throw in running boards we had a deal. They did, no extra charge. They actually installed some pretty nice ones.

When I asked why the factory did not install running boards, they said it's because that is a customized item. Too many people want something different, so they leave them off at the factory so the buyer can select his own "customization".

I would think the same is true for fifth wheel hitches. It would be like having them install a bumper pull hitch too. Too many variables by the potential new owner to make a good call at the factory. Those things are done by the dealerships, but will do pretty much anything or install any product you want, if it makes the sale.

I can’t speak for the GM product line but Ford does offer a “factory installed” 5th wheel in addition to the prep package. It is available for the F350 and F450. They also offer it as a dealer installed accessory.

[GYPSY SOUL]

I originally towed with a short bed, with my goosebox on the 331RL. No issues at all. I did find that my bed space when hitched and traveling was very limited. I now have a LB dually. Still love the goosebox.

[Jpalmer]

Originally Posted by ojo123

Jeff:
I have the exact same set up as you and I am perfectly happy with the hitch. One note however..... Do NOT move the trailer, even a few feet without inserting the safety pin on the hitch! Don't even ask how I know.

Roger that!

[rohrmann]

Originally Posted by ToolMan

Can't say for sure but the B&W may be the only one that is American made. I love my Companion slider. Always easy to hook up and release.

The PullRite products are also USA made.

[Lee-CI]

Ram can be ordered with fifth wheel hitch installed or like all others, with puck mount hitch prep. Can't remember which hitch is factory installed, but it would be a warranted item when ordered that way. At least that is the way it could have been done in the recent past. At today's price points, we'll have to drive this one until the wheels fall off.

[Cbarnes890]

We have a similar Setup a Montana 3781RL weighing right at 15,300 with a 2022 Ford F350 6.7l PS. I my opinion the best hitch setup in the Hesley DB5 air-ride hitch. This hitch gives the most comfortable ride as compared to the Champion. They are a bit pricey around 3k but I am 100% sure you, your new truck and trailer will appreciate the ride it gives you. Here is the link to their website. Hope your new truck has the punk system. https://hensleymfg.com/products/bd5-...hitch-ford-oem

[Wes_Kellie]

I’m just curious. Does anyone have any experience with this Andersen hitch?

https://andersenhitches.com/product/...te-connection/

[Carl n Susan]

Wes_Kellie; Here is a link to an 8 page Thread on the Anderson Hitch and Keystone's letter disavowing frame warranty if used.
https://www.montanaowners.com/forums...ad.php?t=83693

[mlh]

Originally Posted by Wes_Kellie

I’m just curious. Does anyone have any experience with this Andersen hitch?

https://andersenhitches.com/product/...te-connection/

Do a Google search for them.
Lynwood

[Theunz]

Originally Posted by mlh

Do a Google search for them.
Lynwood

I think that you will find…
99.5% of those who have them love them.
.5% of those that have or had one don’t.
75% of those that don’t won’t.
The rest are open minded.